Co-parenting is hard and complicated, especially when your co-parent is often late for exchanges. And, if you face this situation, you likely have asked yourself, “What can I do under Texas law?”
The answer
Yes. There are options under our state’s laws. First, start by documenting each missed or late exchange, and then, use the tools Texas courts already provide.
Standard Possession Order
Most possession schedules are based on the Standard Possession Order. The SPO sets specific pickup and drop-off times. This means that consistent lateness can violate the order. If you already have a court order, you can ask the court to enforce it, including through contempt remedies, such as make-up time, fines or, in serious cases, jail.
How enforcement works
A “motion for enforcement” can be filed to address violations of a temporary or final order. Texas Family Code, Chapter 157, authorizes courts to enforce by contempt and requires certain pleading details (like the date, place and manner of noncompliance). Keep a clean log, messages and any police reports from missed exchanges.
Local practices matter
In Rockwall County, standing orders and local resources often guide co-parenting conduct and exchange expectations. Review any standing order in your case and the county’s civil/family resources before filing. If you are modifying an order or in a new SAPCR, you can seek temporary orders that adjust exchange times, designate neutral exchange locations or require parenting classes.
Practical steps
Using a co-parenting app for communications can help make tracking non-compliance easier. You can also propose small schedule tweaks that reduce late arrivals. Though, always choose safe, neutral exchange sites. And, request make-up time promptly.
If the problem persists, there are legal options. Speak with the court through an enforcement or modification request grounded in a detailed record.